Maria Stuart

Maria Louise Stuart (23 December 1775 - 27 January 1849) was the daughter of Charles Edward Stuart, the Jacobite pretender to the British throne, and Princess Louise of Stolberg-Gedern. She has frequently been called the Countess of Bergolo.

Maria Louise Stuart was born in Florence, Grand Duchy of Tuscany, on 23 December 1775 to Charles Edward Stuart and Princess Louise of Stolberg-Gedern. Louise had hoped giving birth to a legitimate heir would finally put an end to her husband’s abuse, which had only gotten worse as a result of his alcoholism. Despite her optimism, Charles’ mistreatment continued until their separation in 1780.

Maria was raised by her mother in a convent after her parents’ separation in 1780. She had a very strained relationship with her father and as a result, was not included in his will after his death in 1788.

A marriage was arranged between her and Giuseppe Matteo Adami, Count of Bergolo in 1794. The couple resided in Turin and had five children.

Issue

 * Maria Adami (1795-1885)
 * Giuseppe Adami, Count of Bergolo (1798-1861)
 * Teresa Adami (1800-1838)
 * Matteo Adami (1802-1807)
 * Giovanna Adami (1803-1894)